Wednesday 28th November

Last night was the monthly meeting of the Islay Bird nerds, so managed to get a few sightings through from those there of sightings that had not come through earlier. Down at Bruichladdich, George had seen 2 Otters the other day. Paul B. had seen 2 Golden Eagles down on the Oa on Tuesday, and up at Craigens he had 3 Brambling amongst a mixed flock of finches. This morning, before he left for home, Paul had an Otter about 30 yards from where he was standing along with his dog, the Otter was quite unfazed! Mary, back from her holiday on Tobago, had 3 Barn Owls down towards Portnahaven. Up in one of the fields beside his house, Bob had a flock of around 400  Ravens earlier in the week. Many thanks to Paul Beresford for sharing his sightings with us and see you again next year!

Sunday 11th November

Yesterday Bob had a Sparrowhawk in his garden, over Loch Gorm he saw a White tailed Sea Eagle and down at the reedbed at the Coastguard cottages, 12 Redwing were present.  Today, up behind Port Charlotte, Bob had 20 Reed Buntings, 4 Goldcrest and his first ringtail Hen Harrier for some time. Similarly on his feeders, he had his first Coal Tit for a while. Along at "smelly corner" there were 20 Ringed Plover, 34 Dunlin and some Oystercatchers. Further out at the head of Loch Indaal, 70 Pale bellied Brent Geese were present. Coming home at Bruichladdich, an Otter was seen close to the shore.